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Diamond Enhanced Termination Tape

Propellantless, Passive Deorbit Technology for Small Satellites

Diamonds Coatings

With support from Space Force and NASA, PSI is developing its patented diamond-based electron-emissive coating for a variety of space applications.

When exposed to low voltage plasma, the coating develops a negative electron affinity that results in useful emission currents. When applied to an aerodynamic drag tether, the coating substantially increases the electrodynamic drag contribution to tether operation for small sat deorbiting.

Key Features

Diamond-based coating
Passive mode of operation
Compact size
Low cost

Depictions of forces active during electrodynamic deorbiting, diamond coating, and deorbiting maneuver

Benefit to Customer

Coated tether provides shorter times to deorbit compared to uncoated tether.
Offers the possibility for orbit-raising, maneuvering and power generation capabilities in future systems.